From Combat to Inner War: Veteran Mental Health, PTSD, and Writing as Recovery with Donald Dunn

A direct conversation on what happens after war ends and the mind keeps fighting. U.S. Army veteran Donald Dunn (68 months deployed across Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan) breaks down survivor’s guilt, depression, isolation, and why documenting your story can be a turning point. In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life with host Avik, we discuss his books Echoes of War and When Demons Followed Me Home, the mission behind Veteran Voice Radio and Spirits & Stories, and practical ways families can understand invisible wounds. Straight talk for veterans, families, therapists, and anyone navigating trauma.

About the Guest :

Donald Dunn is a decorated U.S. Army veteran, author of Echoes of War, creator behind Veteran Voice Radio and Spirits & Stories, and founder of Barracks Media. His upcoming book When Demons Followed Me Home uses metaphor to make hidden injuries visible.

Key Takeaways:

• Coming home was harder than combat; the “real war” began after the uniform.

• Survivor’s guilt (loss of friends on June 28, 2005) shifted deployments from “job” to life-or-death reality.

• Unspoken trauma erodes family bonds; silence created distance with spouse and children.

• Isolation disguised as work (long-haul trucking) intensified depression.

• A breaking point at home signaled it was time to seek professional help.

• Writing first for family (not publication) enabled honesty without interruption or judgment.

• Putting feelings into words creates third-person perspective and emotional regulation.

• Repeatedly telling the story reduces reactivity; you still feel, but you gain control.

• Healing requires responsibility and amends for harm done during depressive or addictive periods.

• The “demons” in his new book are metaphors—making homelessness, addiction, and rage legible to non-traumatized readers.

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Connect with the Guest

• Website: DonaldDunn.me

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veteranvoiceradio

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/donalddunn

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Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer.

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